CATS seeks fare increase

The Charlotte Area Transit System is seeking a 20-cent fare increase starting in July, which would raise the price of a one-way train and bus ticket to $2.20.

CATS budgets are stretched in part because of projected higher fuel costs and a recent new labor agreement reached with bus drivers.

That December labor deal – which averted a looming strike – includes a 2.5 percent pay raise for bus drivers, who are technically contract employees. Lynx Blue Line drivers, who are city employees, would be subject to whatever raise is approved by the City Council for all employees.

The transit system is also building the $1.1 billion Lynx Blue Line extension to University City.

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